By Bipin Irabatti | Executive Donor Relations
In Brief:
In July, Agastya Foundation successfully expanded its footprint in Jammu & Kashmir through impactful science outreach initiatives in both Srinagar and Jammu. The team organized a series of Science Fairs under the banner of “Agastya Bharat Sangam”, marking 25 years of Agastya’s commitment to hands-on science learning. Additionally, groundwork was laid for establishing a Science Centre in Srinagar, initiating local recruitment, permissions, and partnerships for sustained engagement..
Detailed Report:
1. Srinagar Science Fair – 6th July
To commemorate 25 years of Agastya Foundation, a one-day Science Fair was organized on 6th July at Srinagar under the theme “Agastya Bharat Sangam.”
The Agastya team reached Srinagar four to five days in advance to coordinate all preparations, which included:
Securing permissions from the Education Department
Identifying a suitable host school for the event
Inviting dignitaries and guests
Training 60 selected students to explain science models to visitors
During this period, Agastya also established a new Science Centre in Srinagar and appointed an Ignitor, shortlisted from a large pool of applicants. A formal permission letter was submitted to the Education Department to begin regular school sessions. However, the Director of Education, Srinagar, approved only two-day Science Fairs, Teacher Training Programs (TTPs), and community visits for the time being.
Community and School Feedback
The impact of the Science Fair was immediate. The Principal of the host school appreciated Agastya’s initiative and wrote a formal letter to the Director of Education, requesting the setup of a permanent Science Lab by Agastya Foundation to benefit her students and neighboring schools.
2. Science Fairs in Jammu
Following the success in Srinagar, Agastya organized two Science Fairs in Jammu towards the end of July.
a. Science Fair at Govt. Senior Secondary School, Domana – 29th July
The team arrived on 25th July to train 60 students who presented 30 science models at the fair.
b. Science Fair at Bhartiya Vidya Mandir Higher Secondary School, Ambphalla – 31st July
This event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and visitors.
Everybody lauded Agastya’s efforts in promoting experiential learning and expressed interest in extending support for science initiatives in the region.
3. Future Outlook
Agastya Foundation sees a promising opportunity to set up a permanent Science Lab in Srinagar, especially in the host school that serves 800+ students from Classes 9 and 10, along with nearby schools that could benefit from shared resources.
Additionally, J&K Bank has shown strong interest in sponsoring a Mobile Science Lab in Jammu. Discussions are currently ongoing with the bank’s General Manager and Deputy General Manager to explore partnership possibilities.
Conclusion:
In July, The initiatives mark a significant step in Agastya’s journey of spreading scientific curiosity in Jammu & Kashmir. With strong institutional interest, positive community feedback, and government engagement, Agastya is well-positioned to expand its educational footprint in the region through both Science Centre and Mobile Science Lab programs.
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